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The HSE said it understood a letter had been sent to operators of all similar machines operating in the UK and that some owners may have closed rides “as a precautionary measure”. It added: “HSE will ensure operators are kept abreast of information as it arrives and will take such action as is necessary to ensure the rides are inspected and tested as necessary to ensure safety.”

Manning’s Amusements said: “The safety of our customers is, of course, of paramount importance to us. We confirm that, as a precaution, the Afterburner ride that was being operated by us was immediately taken out of service pending a full investigation being carried out.

“We are liaising with the HSE and the ride will not re-open until all tests have been completed and we are fully satisfied that there is no risk to passengers.”

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A spokesman for Lightwater Valley said the theme park was “deeply saddened” to hear of the US incident.

He continued: “While there are fundamental and significant differences between our ride and the one involved in this terrible incident, we entirely support the HSE’s decision to not operate these types of ride in Great Britain until all the facts are known and a comprehensive investigation has taken place.

“Our ride has undergone the most stringent of safety checks, however as a precaution we strongly believe this is the correct and responsible thing to do. The safety and wellbeing of our visitors is of paramount importance.

“We will, of course, notify the public when the ride is back in operation.”